The GED just became more challenging—and the Champaign Public Library is ready to help students meet that challenge.

As of January 2, 2014, the GED high school equivalency exam is offered only on computer. The content of the exam has also changed. Students can prepare for the new exam—and get comfortable with a computer—using the free online GED test practice tool available through the Champaign Public Library website.

The library subscribes to the Testing & Education Reference Center, a Gale database offering online practice for dozens of standardized tests, including Peterson’s Prep for the GED® Test. Champaign library cardholders can use the resource on any computer with Internet access. The practice exam can also be completed in stages on a public computer at Champaign’s main library or Douglass Branch. To use a library computer, patrons must present a local library card in good standing or show a photo ID.

Users register so that their progress and scores can be saved. Two full-length practice tests are available in English and Spanish, including detailed answers for every question. That’s more extensive than the practice materials available through the GED organization. It offers a free, quarter-length exam without scoring; a half-length exam must be purchased.

To access the Testing & Education Reference Center through the library, patrons should visit www.champaign.org and click “Research & Homework” in the top right corner. Under “Test Practice & Homework,” click “Testing & Education Reference Center.” Once inside the database, look under “High School Tools” for “Peterson’s Prep for the GED® Test.”

For some, the basic computer skills required to take the new GED are also a challenge. The library can help with that, too. Free one-on-one computer tutoring is available by appointment for Champaign library cardholders at both Champaign library locations.

Additional standardized practice tests available include the PSAT, SAT and ACT college entrance exams and the GRE, GMAT, LSAT and MCAT graduate school exams. Vocational exams cover a range of careers including military, firefighting, nursing, law enforcement and real estate.

For more information or to make an appointment for computer tutoring, call the Champaign Public Library at 217-403-2070 or its Douglass Branch at 217-403-2090.